By Austin Angwe, Makurdi
Executive Director, Kozaki Transformation and Development Foundation, Reverend Father Isaiah Ter, has challenged men in the society to always take responsibility in dismantling cultural norms that perpetuate gender-based discrimination to make the society conducive for all.
The cleric threw the challenge while speaking at a stakeholders’ engagement Kozaki Foundation organized in collaboration with the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy and Development held Monday in Gboko, Benue State.
The occasion which brought together traditional rulers, religious leaders, school administrators, media representatives and union leaders from Okada and Keke riders, barbers as well as mechanics, was to officially introduce the Male Feminine Network (MFN) in the state.
He equally explained other benefits of the initiative to include mobilizing men as allies in the fight against gender inequality, adding that they intend to achieve their goal through awareness creation about harmful masculinity to foster a culture of empathy, respect and justice.
Presenting the core concept of the MFN Project, Ukon David described the initiative as a transformative movement that intend to help men unlearn toxic masculinity to embrace values that support gender equality.
He highlighted the project’s goal to include building a network of male allies committed to promoting inclusive communities.
In another presentation delivered by Associate Professor Elijah Ikpanor, titled “Becoming a Male Ally: From Conviction to Consistency,” the university don challenged participants to go beyond verbal support and integrate allyship but venture into everyday actions, describing consistency in behavior and leadership as essential for meaningful change
Participants who spoke during the interactive session said the programme had exposed them to understanding of masculinity, acknowledging their past roles in reinforcing harmful gender norms.
They pledged to become active ambassadors of the MFN Project within their communities, with several unions submitting lists of interested members for future engagement with most participants expressing collective resolve and commitment to support gender justice initiatives across Benue State.
The Stakeholders affirmed their readiness to work together in ensuring that men become champions of equity and allies in building safer, more inclusive communities.